Fiji cave in as Ireland find some firepower

IRELAND finally found some fluency and firepower this autumn with eight tries at the Aviva but Fiji were a shadow of the side that beat Wales in Cardiff earlier this month.

- BRENDAN GALLAGHER

The Irish ran in eight tries and a couple, correctly, were chalked off for forward passes and there was at least an energy and crackle about their attack that has been lacking recently. Bundee Aki was back to his muscular best after being dropped and his old partner in crime Robbie Henshaw also looked lively.

With the pack dominant in the loose and bossing the contacts, Ireland enjoyed a good base and went about their work with a will.

Half the Fiji side meanwhile looked like they were on the plane home and although officialdom did them no favours whatsoever it was a downbeat way to finish a year that has included seven wins in 10 Tests.